Markings on Silver

Posted on February 25, 2025March 3, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

Owning a piece of silver is like owning a piece of history, finding markings on silver can sometimes be quiet difficult. Each unique piece is stamped, or hallmarked, with defining markings from the maker and the era it was verified in. If your silver piece has no markings, you probably do not have a legitimate piece. It is important to learn how to identify markings on silver in order to properly date and valuate each piece.

Identifying Markings on Silver Pieces

To identify markings, you should be able to locate them in key places. You may need to clean up the piece first though. Due to alchemical properties of silver and the base metals, usually copper, needed to strengthen the soft metal, silver is highly susceptible to tarnish. If your silver piece is covered in a soot like or blackened layer, gently take a clean dry cotton cloth to rub away the aged varnish using a specialized cream made for silver. Take care to begin in one area and in a circular motion methodically clean the silver. You do not need water or any harsh chemical. These can damage your historical relic.

As you clean away the tarnish keep an eye out for any markings that appear to be stamped into the metal. These marks are applied using a hammer and punch usually just before the final polishing. This is because when they are stamped, there are rough edges that need to get filed down with the rest of the piece. There are usually more than one marking and will be key to identifying the integrity, origin and value of your silver piece. These defining hallmarks are what an expert will need to accurately date the piece and can be found, but not limited to, these common places:

1. On the underside of a vase, tea set, or any novelty object that rests on a flat surface.
2. On the underside of the handle of flatware where there is enough surface area, generally at the end of the stem.
3. On the back side of pieces that stand upright or hang such as picture frames.

Stamps are applied in the places that do not detract from aesthetic quality and where there is enough room to punch them without puncturing thin silver or damaging any edges. They also may not all be in a neat row, but placed in different places along the piece.

Identifying Fraudulent Markings

Unfortunately, over the years there have been individuals who try to reproduce valuable markings in an effort to sell counterfeit articles. These fraudulent markings can easily be identified by knowledgeable professionals who understand the complicated and authoritative laws that have regulated markings on silver for centuries. The most commonly forged markings on silver are the ones that bring the most value such as Tiffany and Unger Bros.

The easiest way to identify a counterfeit markings on silver is with a side by side comparison of original markings either from an authentic piece or picture from a credible reference. For a collector, the learning process never ends. There are over 12,000 documented silver marks and that list continues to grow as research is part of the enjoyment and reward. Over time, a knowledgeable collector or dealer will become familiar with the nuances of identifying markings and have experience distinguishing their validity and the unique story each silver piece has to tell.

If you have found markings on your silver object, let a collector take a look and give you the needed information to determine its value.

Bronze Sculptures by Erte That Are in Great Demand

Posted on February 19, 2025March 3, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

Without a doubt, Erte ranks highly among the best sculpture artists of all time. He is known as the Father of Art Deco and his works are recognizable, hold deep value and meaning, and have transcended the years without fading from the hearts of their admirers. An Erte bronze sculpture can sell for thousands of dollars in today’s market and are incredibly popular with those who can afford such a luxury. Erte had several different periods within his work and worked with a variety of media. His bronze sculptures in particular, though, hold an incredible value in the hearts of thousands. Influenced by the theater (as well as film) and fashion, his pieces captured the world around him while also capturing the fluidity and motion that are the essence of life.

Erte Changed the Game in the 20 th Century

There is something to be said about the absolute uniqueness of an Erte sculpture and carvings associated with each unique piece. While an Erte sculpture may contain elements that carry tones of his predecessors, he took what he learned to make his pieces 100% his own. For many artists in this time, working with statues or sculptures meant creating something large and memorable. In fact, they were often categorized into two main groups based on size –
monumental and museum sized.

Erte wanted something different. Most of his bronze sculptures are under two feet tall. This enhanced their decorative purpose, making them far more versatile when it comes to where they could be used. Erte spurred on a whole new art movement not once, but twice! He started the Art Deco movement in his younger years, and after revisiting the concept as an elderly man, it was reborn. These pieces influenced more people than he could count during his life, and continue to inspire many to this day.

Erte’s Most Popular Bronze Pieces

Erte took influence from all over the world. They carried tones of the land from which the inspiration was taken, whether that was Paris, where he moved pursuing higher art, America, Ancient Greece, or Arabia. Each piece was unique and carried its own strengths. His work spans the globe, bringing people, cultures, and ideas together in one small, cohesive masterpiece. It is from here that much of his appeal stems.

American Heiress, for example, tells a story just by looking at the piece. This had heavy American influence, hence the name. It accurately depicts not only the stereotypical attire of such a prestigious upper-class woman of that time, but the body language and flow of the work displays her attitude as well. It shows a glimpse into history, making it highly popular in today’s world. This is also evident in other American-based pieces as well, such as Broadway’s in Fashion. This piece combines the likeness of a woman with the stage in an expertly crafted and cohesive work of art.

Erte took inspiration from other global areas as well, often from Asian or Greek culture. This included traditional kimono-clad women such as in his Asian Princess along with goddesses such as in his Aphrodite piece. He also captured the culture of Saudi Arabia in Arabian Nights. This focus on lore and mythology captures images that you cannot see elsewhere as he brought life to stories like the Golden Fleece from ancient Greece. He gave the story a face, a personality, and an emotional side that it did not have before.

He didn’t always stray so far from home, though. Many of his pieces depicted scenes from home in France. He never failed to capture the fluidity and fleetingness of life. One of his most popular French-based pieces, Bella de Nuit, brings life to a period in history, very similarly to American Heiress. These are just a sampling of the many masterpieces that Erte created over his long life that leave his legacy strong to this day.

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Are you selling precious silver items for scrap prices? Read how & where to sell before you do

Posted on February 12, 2025March 3, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

Do you have some silver items that you want to sell? There are a couple of different ways you can sell antique silver bowls and other silver items. The easiest method is to sell them as scrap silver. This involves finding a business that will buy the silver from you for its current value. They then melt down the items and sell off the silver to a company that will use it to make something else. A quick search for “where can I sell silver bowls” is likely to reveal a number of these businesses in your area.

Is This the Right Method for You?

Selling your antique sterling silver bowls and other silver items as scrap may not actually make you the most money. If your items are truly antiques, they’re likely worth much more as they are. Before you sell them to a scrap business, make certain you’ve researched the piece and know what it’s truly worth. You may be able to get much more for it by selling to silver bowls collectors online.

Understanding How it Works

When you sell to a silver scrap business, they usually pay you the current silver value per Troy ounce for your item. It’s important to know that it’s by Troy ounce, which is 0.911 of a U.S. ounce. Before you sell, determine the weight of your pieces in Troy ounces. Next, go online and look up the current value of silver per Troy ounce. Multiply that times the weight of the piece to get its value.

Take Premiums into Account

Remember, though, that you’re likely to get less than what you’ve calculated. Buyers charge a fee to purchase scrap silver. This covers their time in evaluating your items, the work it takes to melt them down, and provides them with a profit when they resell the silver. Some places charge as little as two percent, while others may charge upwards of twenty percent.

Sterling Silver- What It Is and How to Identify Its Quality

Posted on January 24, 2025January 24, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

If you’ve ever admired a piece of gleaming silver jewelry or a beautifully crafted silver dining set, chances are you’ve encountered sterling silver. But what exactly is this lustrous metal, and how can you be sure you’re getting the real deal? The world of sterling silver and uncover the secrets to identifying its quality.

The Sterling Silver Scoop

Sterling silver isn’t just any old shiny metal – it’s a precious alloy with a specific composition that gives it its unique properties. At its core, sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This magical combination is why you’ll often hear sterling silver referred to as “925 silver.”

But why not use pure silver, you ask? Well, pure silver is like that friend who’s a bit too soft – it’s easily bent out of shape and not quite up to the task of everyday wear and tear. By adding a dash of copper or other metals, sterling silver becomes the superhero version of silver – stronger, more durable, and ready to take on the world (or at least your jewelry box).

The Sterling Standard: Benefits and Characteristics

Sterling silver isn’t just a pretty face; it’s got some serious perks that make it a favorite among jewelry makers and wearers alike:

Strength and Durability: Thanks to its copper sidekick, sterling silver can withstand the rigors of daily use without throwing in the towel.
Lustrous Shine: It’s got that classic silver glow that turns heads and makes your grandma’s cutlery the talk of the town.
Hypoallergenic: For those with sensitive skin, sterling silver is less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to other metals.
Affordability: It offers the luxurious look of precious metal without the eye-watering price tag of platinum or gold.

Silver Showdown: Sterling vs. The Rest

Before we dive into identifying sterling silver, let’s quickly compare it to its silver cousins:

Pure Silver (99.9% silver): The diva of the silver world – beautiful but high-maintenance and too soft for practical use.
Sterling Silver (92.5% silver): The perfect balance of beauty and brawn.
Silver-plated: The budget-friendly option – a base metal wearing a thin silver coat.

Sherlock Your Sterling: How to Identify Sterling Silver Quality

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. How can you tell if that vintage necklace or thrift store find is genuine sterling silver? Put on your detective hat and try these methods:

1. The Mark of Quality: Hallmarks and Stamps

First things first, flip that silver piece over and look for hallmarks. Genuine sterling silver often bears stamps like “925,” “Sterling,” or even a lion passant (a fancy term for a lion walking). These marks are like the silver’s birth certificate, confirming its sterling status.

2. The Acid Test (Best Left to the Pros)

For those feeling particularly scientific (and cautious), there’s the nitric acid test. A drop of nitric acid on sterling silver will turn a creamy red. But unless you’re comfortable handling dangerous chemicals, it’s best to leave this one to the professionals.

3. The Sniff Test

Believe it or not, your nose can be a powerful tool in detecting sterling silver. Genuine sterling silver doesn’t have a strong metallic odor. If your “silver” piece smells like you’ve just licked a handful of coins, it might be an imposter.

4. The Polishing Act

Here’s a neat trick: gently rub the silver item with a soft, clean cloth. If it’s sterling silver, you’ll notice a slight black residue on the cloth. This is because sterling silver naturally tarnishes when exposed to air. If your cloth remains pristine, you might be dealing with an imposter.

5. Magnet Magic

Time to raid your fridge for that souvenir magnet! Sterling silver is not magnetic. If your silver item is attracted to the magnet like a moth to a flame, it’s likely not sterling silver.

6. The Eye Test

Sometimes, you’ve got to trust your eyes. Genuine sterling silver will tarnish over time, developing a subtle patina. Silver-plated items, on the other hand, might start flaking or showing the base metal underneath.

The Sterling Silver Saga: Care and Maintenance

Now that you’re a sterling silver sleuth, it’s worth noting how to keep your precious pieces in tip-top shape:

Store Wisely: Keep your silver in a cool, dry place, preferably in anti-tarnish bags or boxes.
Clean Regularly: A gentle polish with a soft cloth can work wonders in maintaining that signature shine.
Avoid Chemicals: Keep your sterling silver away from harsh chemicals, including chlorine and household cleaners.
Wear Often: Believe it or not, wearing your sterling silver jewelry regularly can help prevent tarnish, thanks to the natural oils in your skin.

Wrapping Up: The Sterling Silver Standard

Sterling silver isn’t just a pretty face in the world of precious metals – it’s a durable, versatile, and timeless material that has earned its place in our jewelry boxes and dining rooms. By understanding what makes sterling silver unique and how to identify it, you’re now equipped to make informed decisions about your silver purchases and treasures.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the world of silver, remember that sterling silver is more than just a metal – it’s a piece of history, craftsmanship, and beauty all rolled into one shiny package. So go forth and silver on, armed with your new sterling knowledge!

Techniques for identifying different types of silver that will determine the real worth

Posted on January 20, 2025February 3, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

Silver is a beautiful metal used for centuries to create stunning decorative items and jewelry. If you are a silver collector, it is imperative to accurately determine the value of silver. In this article, we will explore the techniques used to assess the worth of different types of silver.

Sterling Silver vs. Pure Silver.

Sterling silver is an alloy of metals that is used to make jewelry. It is not a pure metal, combining pure silver and other metals like copper, zinc, or nickel. Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metal. This makes the metal more robust and more useful for metalwork.

Pure silver is 99% pure and malleable in nature, sometimes making it difficult to shape into ornaments. Pure silver is also known as fine silver and can be identified by hallmarks like .999, 99.9, or 999, which indicate that it is composed of a single soft metal. Pure silver also does not tarnish when exposed to air or sunlight.

How to Identify Sterling and Pure Silver?

A magnet test is The easiest way to identify pure and sterling silver. Most precious metals, including silver, are nonmagnetic. A magnet will not be strongly attracted to pure silver, but it will be attracted to the other metals mixed in sterling silver.

The test is the smell test. Since pure silver has no odor, if you smell a metallic odor or the scent of sulfur, it is likely sterling silver.

Which is More Valuable to Silver Collectors?

Pure silver is worth more than sterling silver because of its lesser consistency than other metals. However, the higher value of silver lies in its consistency. Pure silver is too soft to be used in jewelry, so it is often mixed with other metals. Antique silver dealers looking to sell or buy jewelry or other silver items prefer pure silver. For investors investing in precious metals, pure silver is a more valuable and profitable investment.

The ultimate worth of your silver flatware set will depend on its purity, which can only be identified by trusted buyers. While pure silver is more valuable than sterling silver, it is essential to consider its intended use. For jewelry-making and decorative items that require durability, sterling silver may be the preferred choice. However, pure silver is a more valuable and profitable option for investors or antique silver dealers.

In conclusion, identifying different types of silver and determining their actual worth requires knowledge of the metal’s purity and composition. Using the techniques discussed in this article, you can accurately determine the value of your silver items and make informed decisions when buying or selling silver.

Silver Hallmarks & other Identifiers – 3 Tips for Reading Hallmarks on Silver

Posted on January 17, 2025February 3, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

In order to properly identify your antique silver pieces, you need to know how to read the hallmark on the item. These stamps indicate the year the item was made, where it was made, and who made it. It can also include a few other pieces, such as a duty mark, although that’s not always the case. If you’re not certain how to tell what these silver hallmarks are, these tips will help you.

How to Make the Mark Easier to Read

Reading the hallmarks of a piece is essential to identify it, but it’s not always that simple. The silver hallmarks identification process is much more difficult on older pieces because the hallmark may not be as clear as it once was due to age or damage. One trick to making it a bit easier to read is to gently blow on it. The warmth from your breath will cause condensation, making the mark clearer.

Know the Common Marks

There are a number of common marks that appear on many silver pieces. For example, the lion passant is standard to identify a piece as sterling silver. If this mark isn’t there, it means the piece is most likely silver plated. You can find a list of the common town marks, date letters, and other hallmarks online or in a number of different guide books. If you’re going to deal in silver, you’ll need to become familiar with them.

Understand the History of Silver

Knowing the history of silver flatware and other items can be very helpful for reading hallmarks. For example, if you see a duty mark on a piece, you’ll know that it was made between 1784 and 1890. You can narrow it down even more if you know when that mark was the king’s head and when it was the queen’s. All of this is vital information that can be used in antique silver appraisal and in your own personal identification of items.

Sterling vs. Britannia Silver

Posted on January 14, 2025February 3, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

Do you have a silver collection at home but aren’t sure of the silver composition? It is possible that your silverware or other antiques are silver plated, but you might also have something more valuable – sterling silver or Britannia silver. While Britannia silver is typically more expensive than sterling silver antiques, both can be indicative of valuable pieces, and it is important to know the difference between the two.

What is 92.5 Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver is a silver alloy that contains 92.5% silver by weight. The other 7.5% of its composition is made of other metals, mostly copper, and antiques often denote their sterling silver composition with a “925” or “sterling” hallmark. Historically, sterling silver has been used for a variety of eating utensils, flatware, and other serving items, and there are many sterling silver pieces that are prized as antiques today.

Sterling silver has long been heralded for its versatile applications and lustrous finish. Sterling silver is harder than gold, but it is considered to be one of the most pliable metals. This malleability makes it easy to use sterling silver to create various forms and shapes, and there are many prized antiques that are made from this metal.

What is Britannia Silver?

The Britannia standard of silver was developed in 1697 as a way to prevent British sterling coins from being melted to create silver plate. Unlike sterling silver, which is made of 92.5% silver, Britannia silver is composed of at least 95.84% pure silver. The other 4.16% of its composition is made of copper and other metals. Britannia silver is also more expensive and less robust than sterling silver.

There are several marks that can indicate a piece is Britannia silver. The Britannia figure is widely recognized and was the first of the Britannia silver marks introduced to indicate. 958 silver fineness. Later, a “lions head erased” mark was introduced for the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths. The number “958” is also stamped on Britannia silver pieces.

Is Your Piece Sterling or Britannia Silver?

The hallmarks on your silver item are the best way to determine if your piece is sterling silver or Britannia. However, if you are unsure of the silver composition – or if you simply want to learn more about the value of your piece – there are resources that can help. An auction house, antique dealer, or appraiser can provide you some helpful guidance on what exactly you have with your silver piece.

Pro Tips on How to Identify Hallmarks on Silver

Posted on December 27, 2024January 9, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

Individuals that have silver items are always eager to know whether what they have is sterling or silver plated. This helps to understand the value of the product and make informed decisions about buying and selling of such items.

Antique silver is valuable and commands high price. For both buyers and sellers of silvers, an understanding of such factors as the age, manufacturer, and rarity of silver items determines the value attached to the items. These important pieces of information about silvers are often contained in the hallmarks.

What Are The Hallmarks?

Silver hallmarks are small stamped symbols that are found on the back or underside of silver items. They are very essential in antique silver appraisal as they provide the right information that help to determine the value and true prices of silver items.

How to Locate Hallmarks?

Hallmarks are placed on different parts of silver pieces. To locate it in different items, check:

Bottom of silver trays, bowls, teapots and dishes
Back of silver flatware
Bottom of candlesticks, figurines, vases and decorative pieces
Near the clasp of necklaces and chains
And inside of rings and cuff bracelets.

Identify the Hallmarks

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Finding the hallmark is just the beginning of silver hallmarks identification. You need to figure out such information as the manufacturers of the item and the year it was made. Manufacturers change their marks over time but there are online resources that can help you to identify each hallmark. Most of them offer detailed photographs and extensive information that will help you determine the value of the antique.

Being able to identify hallmarks on silvers will help you to have a better understanding of what your antique is worth. This will put you in a better position if you finally decide to sell your silver. It will also be better to sell to antique silver dealers. Some reputable dealers will help you determine the value of your silver and buy at prices that are fair.

How Do You Clean Heavily Tarnished Silver?

Posted on December 19, 2024January 9, 2025 by AntiqueSilver

5 Tips: How to clean heavily tarnished silverware at at Home

Silver is considered a precious metal for a reason. The gleaming, reflective quality of polished silver is unique among metals. It has been used for a variety of high-quality items throughout history. Everything from jewelry to coins to candelabras to elegant tableware to picture frames. It is likely that your family has some silver heirlooms. There is just one catch, silver is terribly prone to tarnishing. The beauty of sterling silver is only surpassed by the amount of effort it can take to keep it shining. If you have sterling silver, you are probably wondering how to clean silver items at home. In the article we will explore the 5 best-known at home methods for cleaning your silver.

#1 – How to clean antique silver with a lemon and salt bath?

This is a simple and easy way to restore the shine to your silver. It is particularly useful for frequent cleaning of silver utensils. Take some hot water and pour it into a bowl. Squeeze the juice of a lemon into the bowl. Add three tablespoons of salt. Place the silver item you are cleaning into the water and let sit for five minutes. Remove it and clean by rubbing it with a soft cloth to remove tarnish. For best results use a white silver cleaning cloth. A regular cloth takes more effort and produces inferior results.

#2 – How to clean tarnished silver with toothpaste?

Use toothpaste to clean your sterling silver and your pearly whites! One of the best tips for how to clean silver items at home is to use toothpaste. A little dab (pea-sized) will do it. Simply take the toothpaste and rub onto the silver item using a circular motion to polish it and gently remove the tarnish. Leave the toothpaste on the silver for five minutes and then thoroughly rinse with water.

#3 – How to clean silver with baking soda and foil?

Better silver cleaning through chemistry with baking soda and aluminum foil. One of the best and most popular ways to clean silver is the combination of baking soda and aluminum foil. Boil some water, enough to reach the top of the bowl you will use. Line the bowl with the foil, placing it so the shiny side is up. Pour the water into the bowl and add 1 tablespoon of baking soda for each cup of water. The solution will bubble. Right way you should place the silver item in the bowl. Make sure it touches the foil so the chemical reaction will happen. Leave the item in the solution, 2-5 minutes will do for a minor or regular level of tarnish. Heavy tarnish might require up to 10 minutes. Remove the item and rinse it in cool water then clean with dry cloth.

#4 – See How to clean antique silver with hand sanitizer?

Hand sanitizer removes germs from hands and tarnish from silver. We are all heavily invested in hand sanitizer these days. The coronavirus pandemic means that everyone is stocking up on it. It turns out that this ubiquitous item is actually an easily available answer to the question of how to clean antique silver. You probably have a plenty of sanitizer at home, grab it and get cleaning. It is simple. Just place a few drops of sanitizer on a dry cloth and begin to buff the silver item. It is always a good idea to use a white silversmith’s cloth for optimal results.

#5 – How to shine sterling silver with vinegar?

Shine sterling silver with vinegar. Here is how to clean antique silver with the power of vinegar. This method combines vinegar, water, and baking soda. Start with a bowl of lukewarm water. Add a mixture of a ½ cup of white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Add your silver item to the bowl. Let it soak for two to three hours. Rinse with cold water and allow it to dry.